Rambling Man's Reviews

  Cover Artwork Courtesy of Tristan Sberna Words Written by Anselm Anderson Last month, the French metalcore band Inner Light released their debut album, * Nova *, through an independent label . The female-fronted group follows the success of their two previous EPs: 2023's Inner Ligh t and Structure . Their latest release features a nine-track collection of sonically enhanced metal, characterised by blistering drums, hollow, harsh vocals, and harmonious guitars, all blended with dark atmospherics. Nova  is really the introduction to the band, following a few tasters of what they are about. Produced and mastered by Oscar Nilsson at Studio Bohus and Thomas 'Plec' Johansson at The Panic Room in Sweden. The band formed in 2022 to create music focused on dark subjects with powerful statements. Their music is melodic yet sharp, with each song offering a modern take on metal. Lead singer Marine delivers unique vocals, complemented by the diverse and dynamic guitar harmon...

,  Words by Anselm Anderson A couple of weeks ago, Female-fronted rock act Luna Marble released their much-anticipated self-titled debut album . The album marks a turning point for the quartet as they embark on a new journey in their blossoming career. The band combines 70s-tinged psychedelic rock with energy, passion, and raw emotion, as part of a collection of songs recorded earlier in their career. Inspired by icons like Pink Floyd , Led Zeppelin and co, they formed five years ago in Manchester, England . They are led by the commanding vocals of Maria Rico , the cosmic flair of guitarist Dragos Colceriu , bassist David Grundy , and drummer Sean Stewart . Luna Marble was mastered by Jimmy Spencer at various locations in Manchester, including Salford University . The album aims to establish the band's identity, starting with the opening track " Running ," which delivers a breath of fresh air through thunderous blues riffs and powerful vocals. This song stands out w...

Photo courtesy of Anna Hass Edited by Anselm Anderson Blues Band Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast returns with “ Everything I Need ," a sweeping rock anthem inspired by the UK live-music community spirit . With a voice that can shake rafters and heal hearts simultaneously, this song captures the fire of connection, the resilience of live music, and the wild electricity that occurs only at concerts. Krisko’s vocals soar over rolling organ tones and iconic guitar riffs; Her voice is often compared to the emotional depth of Beth Hart and the raw magnetism of Grace Potter . It cuts straight to the bone as she powerfully belts the refrain: “You got everything I need / If the sun doesn’t come tomorrow / There’s no need for sorrow.”It serves as a reminder that even as the lights dim, the enduring human connection is what makes rock & roll worth fighting for. “‘Everything I Need’ came from the nights on tour in the UK last year, where the audience became the heartbeat of the room,...

Photo Courtesy of Rogue PR Edited by Anselm Anderson Norwegian alt-pop duo Ask Carol has released their second album, titled AC II: Desert Sky , following an intensive and non-stop tour. The band has spent the past nine months performing across the U.S., Europe, the U.K., Norway, and beyond. The album began with their song " Desert ," which is inspired by the vast and beautiful landscapes of the American Southwest . This track evokes a nostalgic feeling of dreaming, endless possibilities, and hopeful freedom. It serves as the backbone of the record, complemented by some reflective and contemplative tunes. Additionally, the album features a surprise from CowChella , which includes a blues track and even a cover song. This album marks the end of an era for Ask Carol and captures their experiences over the past few years through ten songs. It features a range of styles, from the humorous and uplifting adaptations of their Backyard Jam and CowChella music, inspired by their vi...

A look at last week's best new tracks, including new singles from Metal icons Death Angel and Mongolian upstarts Uhaii , plus the latest from Folk Rock act, Subway to Sally and rising stars in Desert Near the End and Gather the Lost . Check the link to watch the videos.  

Photo courtesy of Anselm Anderson Reviewed by Anselm Anderson Legendary NWOBHM icons Saxon celebrated over forty years of their second album ' Wheels of Steel " last night at a jam-packed 02 Apollo Theatre in Manchester, England . I arrived on a moderately cold evening under dusky clouds to watch Biff and co. play the album in its entirety. They were joined by former Accept frontman Udo Dirkschneider to celebrate forty years of ' Balls to the Wall ,' along with a local band called Untamed Silence . It was the latter who kicked off the night with their version of modern blues and powerful soulful vocals. The female-fronted band earnestly tried to get the half-full, sleepless crowd on their feet. The heavily tattooed vocalist strutted around the stage, belting out vocals and smiling at a crowd that finally showed signs of life under the glossy blue lights and smoke-filled stage. After a brief pause, the petite UDO took the stage, joined by guitarists Dee Dammers ...

Photo Credit: Kirsten Southwell Edited by Anselm Anderson Singer-songwriter Lillian King released her debut album, In Your Long Shadow, on Friday, October 24th, via Pronounced Kroog . The album was written in the aftermath of her father's passing and reflects on themes of grief, family, and the depression that can accompany loss. Across ten songs, Lillian draws inspiration from quiet meditations during walks, old rivers, and the strange comfort found in repetition. Her delivery is marked by a voice that is both strikingly soulful and understated. The album highlights Lilian's talent as a songwriter, making it a deeply personal project. After years of performing in basements in Montreal to solo sets across the United States and North America, these experiences have helped her hone her skills, bringing her career to the brink of wider recognition.   Spencer Krug , whose label Pronounced Kroog took Lillian under its wing after a chance tour pairing in 2024. has been key to this ...